Cubic zirconia in jewelry — what it is, types and setting

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic stone made of zirconium dioxide, created in a laboratory. It is hard, transparent and disperses light strongly, so it sparkles impressively. In jewelry it is valued for consistent quality, the absence of natural flaws and a very affordable price. It should not be confused with zircon — a natural mineral of different composition. Cubic zirconia is the most frequently chosen decorative stone in the production of silver and gold-plated jewelry, especially in mass and mid-range collections.

Diamond is the hardest natural stone and the most expensive of the three. Moissanite is also a synthetic stone, harder than cubic zirconia and with even more intense fire, at an intermediate price. Cubic zirconia is the cheapest and softest, so over time it may slightly dull at the edges, but with correct setting and care it keeps its sparkle for a long time. For everyday jewelry and fashion collections cubic zirconia is the optimal choice; for premium engagement rings brands more often reach for moissanite or diamond. A good manufacturer helps match the stone to the brand’s price positioning.

Cubic zirconia comes in a full range of cuts: round brilliant, oval, pear, marquise, baguette, heart or princess. Size is given in millimetres (diameter) — from tiny pavé stones to larger centre stones. Beyond the classic white (colourless), cubic zirconia comes in colours: pink, blue, black, champagne, green and many more. The choice of cut and colour is matched to the design and setting, and for series the consistency of calibration matters so that every piece looks identical.

The setting method determines look and durability. A prong (claw) setting exposes the stone and lets light through; a bezel (closed) setting best protects the edges; pavé and channel settings let you fill a surface with many small stones. We cover the techniques in more detail in the article stone setting in jewelry. Cubic zirconia is set cold (after casting), and for larger series the precision of the seats is crucial so the stones sit firmly and evenly.

For brands, cubic zirconia is a way to make a striking, sparkling collection at a reasonable price — ideal for silver, gold-plated and vermeil jewelry. In production you set the cut, size and colour of the stones, the setting type and the base metal. We deliver both single designs and series as part of custom production and private label. Important for pricing: the price of jewelry with cubic zirconia is split into metal, stones and labour (including setting), so you know what drives cost on future orders.